Summary

This well-regarded text offers a thorough and innovative approach to the structure and function of the cardiopulmonary system. Written in an easy-to-understand style with a highly visual format, the text enhances the reader's comprehension of difficult concepts. Chapters were reorganized into sections to better structure the presentation of essential and more advanced topics. Section I describes the anatomic structures of the respiratory system and covers the major concepts and mechanisms of respiratory physiology across the lifespan, including fetal and newborn gas exchange and circulation. Section II includes three new chapters on electrophysiology of the heart, standard 12-ECG system, and ECG interpretation. The Section also covers hemodynamic measurements and interpretations and the structure and function of the renal system. Section III covers the cardiopulmonary system during unusual environmental conditions (including a thorough discussion of the effects of exercise, high altitude, and high-pressure environments).